Dockless bikes will return to Hackney’s streets this month, with rules to ensure the borough’s pavements remain accessible to everyone.
Hackney Council has commissioned bike share companies Beryl and Jump to introduce more than 500 electric and pedal bikes.
Both companies will fund dedicated parking areas for dockless bikes as part of the agreement, with users fined if they leave bikes outside of these areas, ensuring that Hackney’s pavements remain accessible to everyone.
They will also make a financial contribution to the council to help it manage the scheme and promote cycling to residents.
Hackney Council says the new bikes will provide a range of benefits for those looking to cycle for a one-way trip.
Jump bikes, which are electrically assisted, will cost £1 plus 12p per minute after the first five minutes – with the pedal-powered Beryl bikes costing £1 plus 5p per minute.
Cllr Jon Burke, cabinet member for transport and public realm, said: “We’re London’s top borough for cycling, with a higher proportion of journeys made by bike than any other.
“We support dockless bikes because they can play a big role in getting more people cycling.
“However, we need to balance this with the needs of people using pavements, particularly those with mobility or visual impairments, ensuring that dockless bikes don’t make it harder for them to get around.
“This landmark agreement with Beryl and Jump to introduce dockless bikes to Hackney will encourage people who don’t have space for a bike – or who just want to use one point to point – to cycle more.
“By securing funding from Beryl and Jump to provide dedicated parking areas, we’re also showing the really important regulatory role councils have in making sure our public spaces work for everyone while continuing to support active travel.”
08 October 2019